Change Makes Change — Oct. 26 | OEC News

In August 2026, the OEC Foundation board of directors approved $29,696.14 in grants to support local organizations and individuals. These grants, funded by thousands of OEC members who voluntarily round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar, are part of Operation Round Up (ORU), a program focused on improving lives through direct community investment.

August beneficiaries

ORU grants aim to make a positive impact by strengthening community well-being through a variety of programs and services. This round of grants supported youth programs, food assistance, public safety, STEM education, health needs and other essential services.

Here’s how the funds were distributed:

Individual assistance

The board awarded individual grants to help three individuals receive glasses and one receive denture assistance. Grants also helped provide beds for two individuals transitioning from a group setting into homes of their own.

Organizations

Assistance League of Norman: Operation School Bell program, which provides support to local students

Royal Family Kids Camp: To assist with camp essentials and activities

Outrageous Love DBA Joe’s Addiction: To support free breakfast and lunch programs

Make-A-Wish: To help grant a wish for a local child living with a life-threatening illness

Newcastle Police Department: Equip patrol vehicles with first-aid kits and tourniquets

Royal Society of Robotics: Support student access to STEM materials and provide hands-on manufacturing and engineering experiences

How Operation Round Up works

Roughly 80% of OEC members participate in ORU, each contributing an average of $6 per year. Because of you, these small, voluntary donations add up to meaningful support for programs related to health, safety, education and quality of life. This impact shows the generosity and community spirit of our members.

Every application is reviewed by the nine-member OEC Foundation board of directors to ensure funds are allocated to efforts that make a lasting impact. Since the program began 33 years ago, ORU has distributed more than $7 million in support of food, shelter, medical care, education and more.

Apply for the next grant cycle

The next deadline to apply for ORU grants is Nov. 20, with funding decisions to be made at the Dec. 3 board meeting.

Apply for an Operation Round Up grant at okcoop.org/oru.

For more information or to apply, contact Carrie Koesler at ORU@okcoop.org or call (405) 217-6726. Together, we power brighter communities.